CREW Detroit Embraces Gratefulness: Members Share Their Journey and Advice

As CREW Detroit embraces the theme of "gratefulness" for 2024, key members of the organization's Communications and Promotions Committee have shared their reflections and insights on their CREW journeys. Amanda Goodspeed, Katie Burlager, and Whitney Kutcher highlight the most impactful aspects of their experiences and offer advice to new and returning members.

The Role of the Communications and Promotion Committee

The Communications & Promotions Committee functions as the marketing and communications powerhouse behind CREW Detroit. The Committee is focused on enhancing the image and credibility of CREW Detroit throughout the region and across the local CRE industry. The Communications & Promotion Committee positions CREW Detroit, and its members, in a positive and professional manner through a network of communication tools. This can include social media, public relations, CREW Detroit’s website, industry and member news, blogs and more.

Amanda Goodspeed: Building Relationships

Amanda Goodspeed, Board Director of the Communications and Promotion Committee, emphasizes the importance of relationships in her CREW journey. "I came into the industry with no network and eagerly sought out professional organizations to get involved in," she recalls. "CREW Detroit provided a vast group of collaborative, professional women that I could connect with."

Goodspeed advises new and returning members to attend a Leadership Summit. "The professional development opportunities available in connecting within and beyond our Detroit Chapter are phenomenal," she notes. "I've always come back with fresh insights, great stories, and deeper relationships with industry peers."

For Goodspeed, movie nights with friends bring the most joy. "Getting together for a fun, relaxing evening is one of my favorite things," she says. "Testing out a new projector with Top Gun was pretty epic."

Katie Burlager: Finding Community and Opportunity

Katie Burlager, Chair of the Communications and Promotion Committee, reflects on her transition from Kansas to Michigan seven years ago. "CREW Detroit embraced me with open arms, introducing me to a vibrant network of like-minded professionals," she shares. "Thanks to CREW, I found my place in the Metro Detroit area, and I am forever grateful for the connections and opportunities it has brought into my life."

Burlager encourages members to join a committee and take on leadership roles. "When you get tapped on the shoulder to step into a leadership role, go for it!" she advises. "It pushed me to learn more about the organization and introduced me to other wonderful leaders."

Burlager's greatest joy comes from her two daughters, who are turning 1 and 3 this summer. "They light up my world and watching them grow is the ultimate blessing in my life," she says.

Whitney Kutchner: Grateful for Leadership and Friendship

Whitney Kutcher, Co-Chair of the Communications and Promotion Committee, expresses her gratitude for the inspiring women she has met during her CREW journey. "I'm grateful for their selfless leadership and the friendships I've formed through this network," she says.

Kutcher advises new and returning members to get involved in a committee. "Joining the Promotions & Communications Committee has helped me shrink the 'CREW Universe' and feel more at home in our chapter," she explains. "Not only have I built solid personal and professional relationships, but I've also honed skills that have positively impacted my career outside of CREW."

Currently, Kutcher finds joy in renovating her primary bathroom with her husband and is enjoying the summer. "Seeing the finished product come together has been so rewarding!" she adds.

Conclusion

CREW Detroit's theme of gratefulness has inspired its members to reflect on the invaluable connections and experiences they have gained. Their stories highlight the importance of community involvement and the personal joys that enrich their professional lives.